21 Amazing White Birds in Arizona [ID Guide with Photos]

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White birds in Arizona

Arizona boasts a remarkable array of captivating white birds. While spotting them may be effortless, correctly identifying these avian wonders can be a challenge. 

That’s why an ID guide is invaluable. In this blog post, we present a comprehensive resource showcasing 21 stunning white birds found in Arizona. From common species to rare gems, this guide equips bird enthusiasts with the knowledge to accurately recognize these birds, whether they possess pure white plumage or are predominantly white with splashes of other hues. 

Prepare to be amazed by Arizona’s remarkable white-feathered inhabitants.

1 – Snowy Egret

Quick ID guide to Snowy Egret 

Snowy Egret - a white bird
Snowy Egret
  • They have all-white bodies. Similar to Great Egrets, they also have S-shaped necks. Snowy Egrets get long lacy plumes on the head, back, and neck during the breeding season. 
  • Leg and feet color: They have black legs (like Great Egrets) but their feet are bright yellow in color (non-breeding) and orange-red (breeding)
  • Their bill is black in color and it has a yellow patch at the base of the bill. 

The Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) is a striking bird known for its elegant appearance. It boasts a snowy white plumage, which is shared by both males and females. 

What sets this beautiful species apart are its distinguishing features, such as long black legs, a slender black bill, and striking yellow feet. These contrasting colors create a captivating visual effect. 

Snowy Egrets can be found in various habitats, including marshes, swamps, and coastal areas. Their distribution range extends across North and South America. They are widespread across the United States and can be seen fairly commonly in many states including Arizona. 

When foraging, they use their feet to stir the water and probe to make their prey move so that they can hunt them. Mostly, they forage in estuarine and freshwater habitats. You can often see them along with other egrets. 

In Arizona, you can spot these graceful birds in the northeast part of the state throughout the year, as they are breeding. Other areas usually get them during the non-breeding season. 

Keep an eye out for them in wetland areas and coastal regions, where they can often be seen wading in shallow waters, searching for their favorite meals of fish, crustaceans, and insects.

2 – Cattle Egret

Cattle Egret - a white bird
Cattle Egret

Quick ID guide to Cattle Egret 

  • Cattle Egrets are also all-white birds. Their necks and legs are shorter when compared to other egrets. One of the distinguishable features in Cattle Egrets is their Oakley yellow feathers on the chest, back, and crown during the breeding season.
  • Breeding adults have yellow or reddish legs and non-breeders have dark legs (blackish). 
  • Cattle Egrets have a stout dagger-shaped bill that is yellow in the non-breeding season and red-orange in the breeding season. 

Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis) are native to Africa. But, now they have spread widely over many states of North America as well as in the other parts of the world. Sporting a predominantly white plumage, both male and female Cattle Egrets share this characteristic. 

However, during the breeding season, these birds develop unique features, such as buff-colored plumes on their head, neck, and back. They can be easily identified by their short yellow bill and contrasting dark legs. 

Cattle Egrets are adaptable and can be found in various habitats, including fields, grasslands, and wetlands. In Arizona, they are a common sight throughout the year, especially in rural areas and near livestock. 

These birds are often seen foraging alongside cattle, as they have a symbiotic relationship, feeding on insects and other small creatures disturbed by the grazing animals. 

So keep your eyes peeled when exploring Arizona, as you might spot these industrious Cattle Egrets year-round!

3 – Great Egret

Great Egret - a large white bird
Great Egret

Quick ID guide to Great Egret

  • They have a comparatively larger body with beautiful all-white plumage. Their bodies look tall and thin and they have S-shaped necks. 
  • Leg color is black. 
  • Great Egrets have yellow color, dagger-shaped bills (Great Egrets in the Americas have yellow bills)

The Great Egret (Ardea alba) is a majestic bird that never fails to catch the eye of birdwatchers. With its large size and striking appearance, it’s hard to miss! The Great Egret sports a predominantly white plumage, which is the same for both males and females.

During the breeding season, they develop unique features like long plumes on their back and neck, adding a touch of flair to their appearance. You can spot these graceful creatures in a variety of habitats such as wetlands, marshes, and shallow waters across Arizona. 

They have a wide distribution range throughout North and Central America. The best time to catch a glimpse of the Great Egret in Arizona is during the spring and summer months when they are most active and readily visible. 

Keep your binoculars handy and get ready to witness this captivating bird in its natural habitat! 

4 – American White Pelican

American White Pelican - a large white bird
American White Pelican

Quick ID guide for American White Pelican 

  • Body: Large white body and white head with black outer wing feathers
  • Bill: Huge long bill with an expandable throat pouch. Breeding adults have a ridge on the bill. Bill is orange-yellow in breeding birds and turns duller yellow in the nonbreeding season.

The American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) is a magnificent bird that captures attention with its impressive size and unique appearance. 

Its body is predominantly white, with black flight feathers that stand out in contrast. Both male and female American White Pelicans exhibit this striking white plumage. 

These beautiful birds can be found in various habitats, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They have a wide distribution range, spanning across North America. 

In Arizona, the American White Pelican can be spotted during the winter months, particularly in large bodies of water. Keep an eye out for these graceful creatures as they glide across the water, using their large bill to scoop up fish and other aquatic prey. 

Witnessing the sight of American White Pelicans in Arizona is a true spectacle for nature enthusiasts.

5 – Rock Pigeon (White morph)

Rock Pigeon - white morph
Rock Pigeon (White Morph)

Quick ID guide for Rock Pigeon

  • Body Size: The Rock Pigeon (White Morph) is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring around 12 to 14 inches in length.
  • Bill: It has a relatively small bill, which is typically a pale or light color.
  • Plumage, Bill, and Legs Colors: The plumage of the Rock Pigeon (White Morph) is predominantly white, including the feathers, bill, and legs. 
  • However, it may have subtle variations in shades, with some individuals displaying slight hints of gray or other pale colors.

The Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), a variant of the common Rock Pigeon, exhibits a captivating appearance. With predominantly white plumage, both male and female individuals showcase this striking coloration. 

This bird is adaptable and thrives in various habitats, including urban areas, parks, and cliffs. Rock Pigeons have a diverse diet, feeding on seeds, grains, and scraps. 

In Arizona, these pigeons can be observed year-round due to their widespread presence across the state. Whether in bustling cities or serene countryside, keep an eye out for these common birds soaring through the Arizona skies.

6 – Ross’s Goose (White Morph)

Ross’s Goose (White Morph) - a white bird
Ross’s Goose (White Morph)

Quick ID guide for Ross’s Goose (White Morph)

  • Ross’s Goose is a small bird that measures about 20 to 25 inches in length. And, it is one of the smallest goose species.
  • Bill and legs: This goose species features a short, stubby pinkish bill and pink legs, giving it a delicate and charming appearance.
  • Plumage: The Ross’s Goose (White Morph) is predominantly white in color, with no significant markings or patterns. 
  • Its snowy-white plumage is a defining characteristic, distinguishing it from other goose species.

The Ross’s Goose (Anser rossii) is a charming and attractive bird known for its beautiful snowy-white plumage. Both male and female Ross’s Geese exhibit this distinct white coloration, making them easily distinguishable from other goose species. 

These delightful birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and agricultural fields. They have a wide distribution range across North America, with many Ross’s Geese migrating long distances each year. 

In Arizona, these wonderful birds can be observed during the winter months, particularly in agricultural fields but a bit rare. Witnessing the grace and elegance of the Ross’s Goose in Arizona is a special treat for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

7 – Snow Goose (White Morph)

Snow goose - a large white bird
Snow goose

Quick ID guide for Snow Goose (White Morph)

  • A medium-sized bird, measuring about 25 to 31 inches in length.
  • Bill and legs: This beautiful goose has a short, pink bill and pink legs, adding a touch of color to its overall appearance.
  • Plumage: The Snow Goose (White Morph) is distinguished by its pristine white plumage. 
  • The entire body, including the wings, is primarily white, with no significant markings or patterns. 
  • This snowy-white coloration is what makes it stand out among other goose species.

The Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) is an elegant bird known for its pristine white plumage. Both male and female Snow Geese exhibit this striking white coloration, which sets them apart from other goose species. 

These beautiful birds can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and agricultural fields. Their distribution range spans across North America, with many Snow Geese undertaking long migrations each year. 

In Arizona, these magnificent birds can be spotted during the winter months, particularly in the Southwestern corner of the state in wetlands. 

Witnessing the sight of these graceful Snow Geese in Arizona is a true spectacle for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers alike.

8 – Great Blue Heron (White Morph)

Great Blue Heron (White Morph) - a white bird
Great Blue Heron (White Morph)

Quick ID guide for Great Blue Heron (White Morph)

  • A large bird, standing at an impressive height of around 4 to 5 feet, making it one of the tallest wading birds in North America.
  • Bill and legs: This majestic heron features a long, dagger-like bill that is yellow in color. Its legs are also yellow, complementing its overall appearance.
  • Plumage: The Great Blue Heron (White Morph) exhibits a striking all-white plumage, which is different from the typical blue-gray coloration of its more commonly seen counterpart. 
  • The white feathers give this bird a unique and eye-catching appearance.

The Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) is a captivating variation of the familiar Great Blue Heron, distinguished by its stunning all-white plumage. 

Both male and female individuals of this morph exhibit remarkable white coloration, which sets them apart from their counterparts with the usual blue-gray feathers. These majestic herons can be found in a variety of habitats, including marshes, wetlands, and coastal areas. 

While they are not as commonly seen as the typical Great Blue Herons, the White Morph can occasionally be spotted in Arizona during the winter months. 

Witnessing the elegance of these beautiful birds is a true delight for bird enthusiasts exploring the Arizona wilderness.

9 – Ring-billed Gull

Ring-billed Gull - mostly white bird
Ring-billed Gull

Quick ID guide for Ring-billed Gull

  • A medium-sized gull, measuring about 17 to 21 inches in length. 
  • Bill and legs: It features a distinctive yellow bill with a black ring near the tip, which gives the species its name. The legs are also pale yellow.
  • Plumage: The Ring-billed Gull displays a white body with gray wings and back. During the breeding season, adults develop a dark gray mantle and a black band around their bill. 
  • Juveniles have a mottled brown plumage that gradually lightens as they mature, eventually resembling the adult plumage.

The Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) is a familiar and easily recognizable bird found in various parts of North America, including the state of Texas. 

These medium-sized gulls exhibit a classic white plumage that is shared by both males and females. What sets them apart is their distinct features, such as the yellow bill with a black ring near the tip and yellow legs. 

They can be observed throughout Arizona during different periods of the year, as they are both resident and migratory birds. Ring-billed Gulls are adaptable and can be seen in a range of habitats, including coastal areas, lakes, and even urban environments. 

Their diet consists of a varied menu, comprising fish, insects, and scavenged food. So, keep an eye out for these charismatic gulls during your bird-watching adventures in Arizona.

10 – American Avocet

American Avocet - Mostly white bird
American Avocet

Quick ID guide for American Avocet 

  • A medium-sized wading bird, measuring approximately 16 to 20 inches in length.
  • Bill and legs: This bird is known for its long, slender, upward-curved bill, which is black in color. Its legs are also long and gray.
  • Plumage: During the non-breeding season, the American Avocet exhibits a distinctive black and white plumage. 
  • Its head, neck, and back are predominantly black, while the underparts and wings are white. 
  • The black plumage extends up to the top of the head, creating a striking contrast with the white body. The back feathers have a unique scaly appearance.

The American Avocet (Recurvirostra americana), in its non-breeding plumage, is a captivating wading bird that graces our wetlands and coastal areas. 

This medium-sized bird stands out with its striking black-and-white coloration. Its head, neck, and back are adorned in glossy black feathers, while its underparts and wings shimmer in pure white. 

Both male and female American Avocets display this eye-catching plumage, making them easily identifiable. These elegant birds can be found in a variety of wetland habitats, including salt pans, mudflats, and shallow marshes. 

In Arizona, they are commonly seen during the winter months, throughout the state, adding a touch of elegance to the coastal scenery. 

The American Avocet gracefully forages for its preferred diet of aquatic invertebrates, utilizing its long, slender, upward-curved bill to sweep through the water and capture its prey. 

Witnessing the beauty and grace of the American Avocet is a delightful experience for bird enthusiasts exploring the Arizona wetlands.

11 – Trumpeter Swan

Trumpeter Swan - White Bird
Trumpeter Swan

Quick ID guide for Trumpeter Swan

  • Body size: The Trumpeter Swan is a large bird, measuring approximately 4 to 5 feet in length, making it one of the largest waterfowl species in North America.
  • Bill: The Trumpeter Swan is characterized by its distinctive black bill, which is long, straight, and triangular in shape.
  • Plumage, bill, and legs: The adult Trumpeter Swan has pure white plumage, a black bill, and black legs. Its elegant appearance is accentuated by the striking contrast between the white feathers and the dark bill and legs.

The Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) is a large bird that captivates with its elegance and beauty. 

Its body is primarily white, with a long graceful neck and a distinctive black bill. Both male and female Trumpeter Swans possess this striking white plumage. 

These enchanting birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, lakes, and rivers. 

They have a wide distribution range across North America. In Arizona, the Trumpeter Swan is a rare visitor during the winter months, particularly in the central parts of the state. 

Keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures as they glide across the water, gracefully foraging on aquatic plants. 

12 – Tundra Swan

Tundra Swan - a large white bird
Tundra Swan

Quick ID guide for Tundra Swan

  • Body Size: The Tundra Swan is a large bird, measuring approximately 4 to 5 feet in length.
  • Bill: It has a long and straight bill, which is predominantly black.
  • Plumage, Bill, and Legs Colors: The plumage of the Tundra Swan is mostly white, with black legs and feet. However, some individuals may exhibit a slight yellow patch near the base of the bill.

The Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus), a majestic bird of North America, is known for its striking appearance and distinctive characteristics. 

Both male and female Tundra Swans exhibit brilliant white plumage, making them easily recognizable in their habitats. 

These beautiful birds can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, ponds, and lakes, particularly during their winter migration. 

They primarily feed on aquatic vegetation, using their long necks to reach underwater plants. 

While the Tundra Swan is widely distributed across North America, it can also be spotted in Arizona during the winter months, making it a delightful sight for bird enthusiasts in the state.

13 – Little Blue Heron (Juvenile morph)

Little Blue Heron - blue bird (juveniles are white)
Little Blue Heron

Quick ID guide for Little Blue Heron 

  • Juvenile Little Blue Herons have white plumage and their appearance is quite similar to Snowy Egret. The S-shaped neck is also another similarity. And, they are comparatively smaller in size.  
  • Little Blue Herons have a dagger-shaped bill. And the tip of the bill is black (in contrast, the entire bill of the Snowy Egret is black)
  • These birds have Pale greenish legs whereas Snowy Egrets have black legs. 

The Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) is a stunning bird with a distinct appearance that undergoes a remarkable transformation as it matures. 

In its juvenile phase, this heron exhibits a white morph including head and neck. As it grows older, its plumage transitions to an elegant slate-gray color, with a publish gray head and neck. 

Both male and female Little Blue Herons showcase this captivating transformation.

These birds can be found in a range of habitats, including marshes, swamps, and wetlands. They can mostly be seen as flocks in open wetlands. 

They mix with other herons and wading species when breeding. 

In Arizona, they can be observed year-round but very rarely, with the most possible during the spring and summer months. Keep an eye out for these mesmerizing herons as they patiently stalk their prey of fish, amphibians, and insects in the marshy landscapes of Arizona.

14 – White Ibis

White Ibis - large white bird
White Ibis

Quick ID guide for White Ibis 

  • Adult White Ibises have white bodies and little black on their wingtips. And, one of the unique features is their red facial skin.
  • Their bills are long and downward-curved. Bill color is orange-red (a distinctive feature)
  • And, they have pinkish-red legs

The White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) is a fascinating bird with a unique and easily recognizable appearance with a prominent pink naked face. 

Its body is primarily white, with black wingtips that stand out against the pale plumage. The appearance of immatures is different to adults with brown and white mixed plumage.

Both male and female White Ibises exhibit this white coloration. However, during the breeding season, adults develop distinctive reddish-orange facial skin and a long, curved bill. 

These stunning birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including marshes, swamps, and coastal areas. 

In Arizona, they are not a common sight year-round, with only a handful of observations per year. 

Keep an eye out for these elegant creatures as they forage in shallow waters, probing the mud for crustaceans, small fish, and insects. White Ibises are not shy, sometimes you can see them foraging close to humans. 

Witnessing the grace and beauty of the White Ibis is a true delight for bird enthusiasts exploring the diverse landscapes of Arizona, and if you spot one it’s important to report it in eBird.

15 – Herring Gull

Herring Gull - mostly white bird
Herring Gull

Quick ID guide for Herring Gull

  1. Body Size: Herring Gulls are large birds, measuring approximately 22-26 inches (56-66 cm) in length with a wingspan of about 4.5-5 feet (137-152 cm).
  2. Bill: They have a robust yellow bill with a red spot on the lower mandible. The bill is fairly long, measuring around 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length.
  3. Plumage, Bill, and Legs: Adult Herring Gulls have predominantly white plumage, with gray wings and back. Their legs are pink or flesh-colored, and their eyes are yellow. Immature Herring Gulls have a mottled brownish-gray plumage, which gradually transitions into adult plumage as they mature.

The Herring Gull (Larus argentatus), a large and versatile seabird, exhibits a distinctive appearance. 

Both male and female Herring Gulls feature a white plumage, with the adults displaying gray upper parts and black wingtips. 

These birds are commonly found along coastal regions, including beaches, harbors, cliffs, and seldom in lakes located inland. 

Their diet is diverse, ranging from fish and crustaceans to scavenging for food scraps. 

While Herring Gulls are primarily coastal birds, they can also be spotted in inland areas of Arizona, particularly during the winter months when they migrate south in search of milder climates. 

16 – Elegant Tern

Elegant Tern - mostly white bird
Elegant Tern

Quick ID guide for Elegant Tern 

  • Medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 15-17 inches (38-43 cm) in length, with a wingspan of about 30-32 inches (76-81 cm).
  • Bill: They have a long, slender, and slightly curved orange bill, which is a distinctive feature. 
  • Plumage: Adult Elegant Terns have a mostly white plumage, with a black cap extending from the top of the head to the nape. They have grayish wings and a white tail. Their legs are black. 
  • During the breeding season, adults develop a black nuptial crest on the back of the head.

The Elegant Tern (Thalasseus elegans) is a captivating bird known for its graceful appearance and distinctive features. 

This medium-sized seabird displays a predominantly white plumage, with a notable black cap that extends from the top of its head to the nape. 

Both males and females exhibit this striking black-and-white coloration, which sets them apart from other tern species. This bird is considered as near threatened by IUCN.

Elegant Terns can be found in various coastal habitats, including beaches, lagoons, and estuaries. They are skilled divers and feed primarily on small fish, swooping gracefully into the water to catch their prey. 

While their breeding range encompasses the Pacific coasts of North and South America, Elegant Terns can also be spotted occasionally in Arizona during their migration periods, particularly from late spring to early autumn.

17 – Forster’s Tern

Forster's Tern - mostly white bird
Forster’s Tern

Quick ID guide for Forster’s Tern

  • Medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) in length, with a wingspan of about 28-30 inches (71-76 cm).
  • Bill: They have a slender, pointed, and orange-red bill with black tip, which is a key characteristic for identification. The bill measures around 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) in length.
  • Plumage, Bill, and Legs: Adult Forster’s Terns have a combination of white and pale gray plumage. 
  • They display a white body with grayish wings and a distinct black cap on the head. Their legs are orange or reddish-orange. 

The Forster’s Tern (Sterna forsteri) is a captivating bird known for its elegant appearance and distinct characteristics. This medium-sized tern displays a striking combination of white and pale gray plumage. 

Both males and females have white plumage, with subtle variations in breeding and non-breeding seasons. 

They feature a black cap on their heads, which stands out against their white cheeks. Forster’s Terns can be found in a variety of habitats, including marshes, lakes, and coastal areas. 

They are agile flyers and skilled divers, feeding primarily on small fish and insects. In Arizona, these terns can be observed during their migration period from late spring to early autumn, particularly along water bodies.

18 – Common Tern

Common Tern - mostly white bird
Common Tern

Quick ID guide for Common Tern

  • Medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 13-15 inches (33-38 cm) in length, with a wingspan of about 28-31 inches (71-79 cm).
  • Bill: They have a sharp, slender, and bright red bill. 
  • Plumage: Adult Common Terns have a combination of gray and white plumage. They display a white body, gray wings, and a forked tail. 
  • Their legs are typically a dark reddish color. During the breeding season, they develop a black cap on their heads, extending down to their nape, contrasting with their white cheeks.

The Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) is an eye-catching bird known for its graceful appearance and distinctive features. These medium-sized birds display a beautiful combination of white and gray plumage. 

Both males and females have white plumage, with slight variations during breeding and non-breeding seasons. 

They feature gray wings and a forked tail, adding to their charm. Common Terns can be found in various habitats, including coastal areas, lakes, and rivers. 

They are agile flyers and skilled divers, feeding primarily on small fish and invertebrates. 

In Arizona, these terns can be observed during their migration period from late spring to early autumn but not frequent, particularly in coastal regions and near bodies of water.

19 – Franklin’s Gull

Franklin's Gull - mostly white bird
Franklin’s Gull

Quick ID guide for Franklin’s Gull

  • Body Size: Franklin’s Gull is a medium-sized gull, measuring approximately 13-15 inches (33-38 cm) in length.
  • Bill and Plumage Colors: Franklin’s Gull has a black bill that is relatively short and slender. During the breeding season, adults display a black head and neck, with a white eye-ring and a distinctive red bill and legs. 
  • The body plumage is pale gray on the upperparts and white on the underparts.
  • Legs: Has bright red legs, which is a key characteristic during the breeding season.

The Franklin’s Gull (Leucophaeus pipixcan) is a captivating bird known for its unique colors and striking patterns. 

This medium-sized gull boasts a pale gray plumage on its upperparts, contrasting beautifully with its white underparts. 

During the breeding season, both male and female Franklin’s Gulls showcase a black head and neck, adorned with a white eye-ring that adds a touch of elegance. 

A distinguishing feature is the bright red bill and legs, making it easily recognizable among other gull species. 

Found across North and South America, Franklin’s Gulls prefer habitats near freshwater lakes, marshes, and coastal areas. As opportunistic feeders, they enjoy a varied diet that includes insects, fish, crustaceans, and plant matter. 

In Arizona, these charming birds can be observed during their migration period, typically in late spring and early summer, offering bird enthusiasts a wonderful spectacle of nature’s beauty.

20 – California Gull

California Gull - mostly white bird
California Gull

Quick ID guide for California Gull

  • A medium to large-sized gull, measuring approximately 21-25 inches (53-64 cm) in length, with a wingspan of about 53-61 inches (135-155 cm).
  • Have a yellowish bill with a black and red spot near the tip. 
  • During the breeding season, adults display a white head, neck, and underparts. Their upperparts are pale gray, while the wings are predominantly gray with black tips. 
  • They also have distinctive dark gray to black wingtips with white spots.
  • Legs: California Gulls have yellow legs, which provide a noticeable contrast against their white plumage.

The California Gull (Larus californicus) is a remarkable bird known for its distinctive colors and patterns. 

Both male and female California Gulls have white plumage on their heads, necks, and underparts, creating a striking contrast against their pale gray upperparts. 

One of their most notable features is their wings, which display a gray color with black tips and white spots. This medium to large-sized gulls have a yellowish bill with a black and red spot near the tip. 

California Gulls can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, lakes, and rivers across western North America. 

They are opportunistic feeders, dining on fish, insects, crustaceans, and even scavenging for human food. 

In Arizona, these magnificent birds can be spotted during their migration period, primarily in the late winter and early spring, offering a fantastic opportunity for birdwatchers to witness their beauty. 

21 – Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern - mostly white bird
Caspian Tern

Quick ID guide for Caspian Tern

  • A large seabird, measuring approximately 20-23 inches (51-58 cm) in length, with a wingspan of about 47-53 inches (120-135 cm).
  • Bill: Have a distinctive long, thick, and bright red-orange bill.  
  • Plumage Colors: They have a white plumage on their body, with a black cap that extends down to the nape of the neck. During the breeding season, adults may also display a black, shaggy crest on the back of their heads.
  • Legs: Caspian Terns have relatively long legs that are black in color, providing a noticeable contrast against their white plumage.

The Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia) is an unmistakable seabird renowned for its impressive size and striking appearance with a prominent beak. Both male and female Caspian Terns exhibit a white plumage, which covers their entire body. 

They possess a prominent black cap that extends down to the nape of their neck, providing a distinct contrast against the white feathers. One of their key features is their long, thick, and vibrant red-orange bill, adding a splash of color to their appearance. 

Caspian Terns prefer coastal habitats such as beaches, estuaries, and saltwater marshes but they do record in inland water bodies as well. They have a wide distribution range, found on all continents except Antarctica. 

In Arizona, these magnificent birds can be spotted during their migration period, which typically occurs in late spring and summer, making it an ideal time for birdwatchers to catch a glimpse of their graceful flight and impressive dives as they hunt for fish in the state’s waterways.

Why wait, let’s explore!

Arizona offers a breathtaking array of white bird species, each with its unique charm and beauty. 

From the elegant Snowy Egret to the majestic American White Pelican, these avian wonders fascinate the observer’s imagination. 

Exploring the diverse habitats of Arizona presents a remarkable opportunity to witness the ethereal grace of these magnificent creatures firsthand. 

Have you encountered any of these stunning white birds during your visits to Arizona? Share your experiences and sightings in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the awe-inspiring world of avian wonders together.

And don’t forget to put your observation in eBird data portal (you can read more about eBird in our article: Birding Smart With eBird Mobile APP)

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